The Agency Accelerator

It's that time of the year again, where I stop, take a pause to look back on my year and evaluate what went well, what didn't go so well and what I have learned. So that’s the focus of today’s episode. In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I share all the things I did in my business that worked well, the not-so-good stuff and the key learnings. Based on these learnings, what am I going to do differently next year?. I know you can listen to lots of gurus online who claim to have all the solutions and paint an amazing picture of themselves and their business. But I wanted to be really honest in sharing this: the things that I screwed up with, the money I spent on things that I shouldn't have, the things that I did well, and the plans I have for next year. Time Stamp [00:55] What went well for me in 2021? [4:00] The importance of assessing metrics [4:34] My 4-day working week [06:00] What didn't go so well for me in 2021? [07:50] Fixing my website! [08:44] The importance of having a strategy and plan before jumping into execution [09:25] What are my key learnings for the year? There are no shortcuts!Do your due diligence before you work with any suppliers Keep focused and avoid shiny objectsKeep a record of all your software subscriptions [11:23] What I am going to do differently in 2022 Launch a new websiteStreamlining and measuring my marketingFocus on YouTube content [14:00] Keep distractions at bay! [14:30] Use more batching [15:00] Keep focused and do less! Quotations “...there are no shortcuts. Every genuine, robust business development strategy delivers in the medium to long term, and so if you're looking for instant gratification, you're always going to be very disappointed...” - Rob Da Costa “...you need to keep focused, have a plan for the year as there are lots of shiny objects competing for your time and there are no quick fixes.” - Rob Da Costa “Remove all the distractions and keep focused on the task at hand.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel The Self-Running AgencyThe Agency Selling SystemThe Build, Nurture, Convert BlueprintGet in touch with Rob at [email protected]

What are the latest trends in creating compelling and engaging content on Linkedin? In this week's episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I’m joined by one of my repeat and popular guests, Tracy Burnett. Tracey is a LinkedIn marketing expert, who helps business owners generate more business using LinkedIn. In this episode, Tracy shares the latest trends, ideas and tips in creating content strategies for LinkedIn. Make sure to grab a pen and paper for note-taking because this will be another action-packed episode. Time Stamp [02:15] Is it worth switching to Creator mode? [03:11] The key ‘new things’ in using LinkedIn [04:41] Why has LinkedIn limited the number of connection requests you can make each week? [06:09] How to publish newsletters on LinkedIn (new function) [07:36] The four (4) pillars in creating content [09:48] Understanding how to make the algorithm work for you [14:01] The importance of getting debates in your posts [15:03] Why are hashtags important and how many should you use? [15:38] How to research your hashtags [17:09] Why you should create your own hashtag [19:12 How many times a week should you post on LinkedIn? [21:10] Are Pods worthwhile? [24:58] The importance of creating high-quality content rather than any old content! [26:11] How to create content that your audience cares about [26:53] Being authentic & human in your posts [32:19] Tracey’s advice to her younger self Quotations “...every single, robust, deliverable business development strategy takes time.” - Tracey Burnett “I think that asking yourself this question when you're writing a post of ‘Will my audience care about this?’ is actually a really good benchmark to decide whether it’s a good post or interesting.” - Rob Da Costa “Don't feel you need to be everywhere... Keep your marketing simple.” - Tracey Burnett Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Tracey Burnett - LinkedIn #linkedinwithtraceyburnettEpisode 37: LinkedIn Learning - Interview with Tracey BurnettRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

As we head to the New Year, I wanted to share a few ideas with you to make sure that you start the new year in your agency or your freelance business on the right foot and with a robust plan. So in today’s episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I dig into what you should be doing with your business's long-term vision and how to break it down from a year to quarter, quarter to monthly, and then weekly set of goals. Time Stamp [1:37] Am I a believer in having New Year’s resolutions? [1:58] The importance of having a plan [2:36] Tips to creating your vision [4:09] Why it’s vital to connect personal aspirations and goals with your business vision [5:57] Understanding finance, people and external factors in your planning [9:34] The importance of creating a dynamic business plan [11:28] How changing your environment can help you create an inspired business plan Quotations “You need to have a plan because you need to have a sense of where your business is headed.” - Rob Da Costa “Be in control rather than letting external factors dictate your direction.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: FREE Tool and Resources! Creating a Scalable and Sustainable Agency Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

In this week's episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am joined by Kevin Urrutia. Kevin started out as a software developer and moved into eCommerce, starting Chester Travels (selling suitcases), growing to $1.5 million in 18 months. He also started a home cleaning business which he grew to $3 million in 18 months. He now runs a digital agency, Voy Media. And if that wasn't enough, he is also the co-author of 'Digital Marketing Made Easy: A-Z Growth Strategies and Key Concepts of Digital Marketing.' In this episode, Kevin shares his journey from entrepreneur to growing and selling a business. We also explore what drove him to transition into the world of digital marketing, the best tips he could give aspiring entrepreneurs, and how having the right mindset will help you grow your agency. Make sure to grab a pen and paper for another action-packed episode with Kevin Urrutia. Time Stamp [2:30] What drove Kevin to transition from technology and entrepreneurship to digital marketing [3:11] The importance of having the right mindset [3:28] Understanding how and why Kevin started various businesses [5.29] Overcoming hurdles at different stages of growth [6:46] Why having your systems in place is essential for sustainable growth [7:10] How finding the right people has changed in midst of the pandemic [9:20] Dealing with the shortage of great marketing people [11:33] The battle of keeping your clients happy without overservicing - don’t be a charity! [13:09] What are the early stage hurdles for start-up agencies? [16:08] Why having a sales process is so important for a growing agency [18:56] Sales strategies to win more clients (without relying on referrals and word of mouth) [20:56] The importance of building your brand: ‘Am I building the brand as me? Or am I building the brand as a bigger business? [24:06] The deciding factors and key advice in selling an agency [26:25] How to achieve a ‘good entrepreneurial mindset' [30:10] The biggest trends and future predictions of digital marketing [31:58] Kevin's advice to his younger self Quotations "I've always wanted to do my own thing, and that has always driven me. It's like that concept of 'Hey, I'm my own boss. I have my own things and building my own like products or companies.'" - Kevin Urrutia "I always say that clients are the spark that gets their business going, but they also become the roadblock to growth in the end because they kind of have to get out of their own way. And they've got to realise that other people, they need to let other people do the work and other people may not do it as well as them or in the same way as them, and that's okay." - Rob Da Costa "To have an entrepreneur mindset, you have to be willing to just try new stuff." - Kevin Urrutia “Don't be scared of failing, because we all fail in order to move forwards.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts "I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode." If that sounds like you, please consider the rating and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not subscribed, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Kevin Urrutia - Email Kevin at [email protected] Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

What is the anatomy of a high-converting email? If you are a regular listener to this podcast, then you know I am a massive fan of using a mailing list as a central part of your business development strategy. A lot of people buy into the concept of building a list and regularly emailing that list but then they get stuck because they don't know what to send or their open/engagement levels are disappointing so they get disheartened and quit! So in today's episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I dig into what makes a great email and how to structure an email to maximise engagement. This episode is brought to you by my brand new programme: The Build, Nurture and Convert Blueprint, which is the A to Z of building a complete email marketing machine to attract new subscribers, nurture them and then convert them into loyal customers. I'm providing a special offer for podcast listeners. Join my brand new email marketing & list building programme, The Build, Nurture, Convert Blueprint. Use 'PODCAST20' at checkout to get a 20% discount. Time Stamp [1:50] The importance of building an email list [2:28] Understanding the three (3) crucial parts of a successful email [3:07] #1: Getting the subject right [4:16] Different types of subject lines [5:52] Tips in writing emails [6:21] #2: Using P.S as a way to sell products or services [7:46] #3: Writing the body of an email [8:37] How to add value to your readers [9:27] Which is better: text-based email vs well-designed graphic email? [10:16] The concept of “Pain, Agitate and Solve’ to structure a high-converting email [12:21] The ideal frequency in sending emails [13:10] The average benchmark rates for conversion, click-through rates and engagement [15:25] NEW! Email Marketing and List Building Programme: The Build, Convert and Nurture Blueprint Quotations “..no matter how powerful the content of your email is, the subject line determines whether your email is going to be opened, ignored or just thrown straight in the trash.” - Rob Da Costa “I think you should send emails at least once a week or twice a month, but certainly no less frequently than that, because people will forget you.” - Rob Da Costa “Try and get 1% better every time you write an email. Remember, doing something imperfectly is much better than waiting till you can do it perfectly.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: The Build, Nurture, Convert Blueprint Programme - Promo code: 'PODCAST20'Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

How agencies use outbound marketing and business development to accelerate their growth. That’s what we’re talking about in this week’s episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I'm really excited to have Christian Banach to join me today on this episode because he has a different view from mine about lead generation and business development. One of the reasons why I love having guests on the podcast is because I don't always agree with them or I don't always have the same viewpoint. But at the end of the day, their viewpoints are valid and clearly working for them and their customers. So today we are discussing and debating outbound lead generation, cold calling, cold emailing and more. So, make sure you grab a pen & paper since there are some great advice and action point takeaways. Time Stamp [2:03] How Christian transitioned from being a concert promoter to the agency world and how his businesses have developed throughout the years [4:17] Working with giant brands such as Allstate and Toyota [5:12] Christian’s perspective about word of mouth marketing [6:48] Tips in dealing with new clients [8:12] Why it is so critical to identify your niche [10:04] How a cold calling outbound communications strategy works [12:04] Why multi touch points and channels are important [13:07] How to use personalisation marketing strategies [15:11] Understanding clients’ businesses and the best lead generation practices [18:54] The importance of nurturing your own network first [20:33] Is hiring an in-house business development person for SMEs necessary? [23:47] How the Pandemic has affected the business development landscape over the years [28:35] Three (3) business development tips to improve your relationship generation [30:36] Christian’s advice to his younger self Quotations “One of the first things that we do with our clients is to audit their body of work and try to understand what we call a ‘pivotal problem’.” - Christian Banach “You need multiple touches in order to really start to build awareness and get people to respond. So, multi-touch multi-channel is very important. ” - Christian Banach “It's interesting that sometimes people are looking for the juicy fruit at the top of the tree for their new clients. But meanwhile, there's some ripe fruit that's fallen on the ground that they could be nurturing.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Christian BanachCloudways Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Why is it so important to focus on building your email list? In this week’s episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, we explore the important topic of list building and strategies to grow your email subscribers. As you know, when I interview guests, I always ask them if they go back in time and give their younger selves one piece of business advice, what would it be? And if I asked myself that question, it would be, ‘Hey, Rob, start building your email list sooner.’ If you're still questioning why list building is so important (because maybe you spend a lot of time doing social media, and that delivers some leads for you), just consider this: when you are building your social media profile and followers, you're building an asset for someone else's business but when you build your list, you are building an asset in your business. Listen to this episode as I share more reasons you should be focusing on list building and HOW to win more subscribers. Time Stamp [1:59] How to help your clients find you [2:28] 7 important facts why an email list is one of your businesses most valuable assets [2:53] #1 You are 6x more likely to get higher click-through rates through emails instead of a social media post. [3:02] #2 Email is 40 times more effective at acquiring new customers than social media. [3:09] #3 Email marketing can generate up to 80% of your website traffic. [3:19] #4 You ‘own’ your email list whilst you ‘rent’ your social media. That means with your email list you are building a genuine asset in your business. With your social media, you are helping build someone else’s business! [4:08] #5 Email is the most scalable way to make sales with new customers and build a deeper relationship with existing customers. [4:19] #6 You can reach far more potential customers with email than you can with social media. [4:55] #7 For every £1 you spend on your email list you can expect £42 ROI. [6:08] More tips in building your email list [6:43] The importance of having a clear niche [8:25] Reasons why you should understand the buyer’s journey [9:42] Four types of emails [10:41] Understanding the value of email marketing [11:29] NEW! The Build, Nurture, Convert Blueprint Programme [13:46] How to get the balance in your email marketing Quotations “..when you build your list, you are building an asset in your business. When you are building your social media profile and followers, you're building an asset for someone else's business.” - Rob Da Costa Your audience is looking for you and it’s your job to help them find the solutions you're offering.” - Rob Da Costa “You build and nurture your email list and when your prospect is ready, you convert them.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Cloudways The Build, Nurture, Convert Blueprint ProgrammeRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

In today’s episode of the Agency Accelerator Podcast we are discussing whitelabelling: either white labelling your services or buying in services from another agency. This is an important topic since many agencies/freelancers want to sell their services on a white-label basis to other agencies or want to partner with other agencies to provide white label services to their own clients. So in this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am joined by John Horn, the Managing Partner at StubGroup, a Premier Google Partner ranked in the top 1% of all Google Partners worldwide. Amongst many topics, John shares how he has built his white labelling services agency, how to structure agreements, set the pricing right, tips in maintaining client relationships, ways to avoid the common pitfalls, and more. Many agencies and freelancers start out by whitelabelling their services, as a great channel to win business. As they grow they may want to offer their customer’s services that are not in their specialism, so whitelabelling is a great way to do this without the risk of hiring new staff. So get ready for this action-packed episode. Time Stamp [3:00] How John landed in the world of white labelled services [5:54] What is white labelling and why would an agency want to white label their services? [7:27] The risks in hiring people [8:49] How to price correctly and ensure that you are paid for your worth [14:34] Maintaining a strong relationship with your whitelabel partner by establishing strong lines of communication [16:35] Brand as you or your partner? [17:19] Tips in selecting a good white label service partner [20:12] How to figure out if an agency should hire an in-house team or outsource [23:54] The importance of transparency in communicating with clients [25:43] How to maintain a balanced and equal partnership [26:38] Reasons why you should avoid ‘toxic’ partners [27:44] What are the deciding factors to consider if it’s right to transition from white label services and bring them in-house [30:28] How did John manage to teach 85,000+ students online? [31:41] John’s advice to his younger self Quotations “..there has been so much change in the Pay Per Click World. What you did yesterday may not work today.” - John Horn “So the ideal relationship that we're always striving and looking for in partners is where there's going to be transparency in communication.” - John Horn Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Cloudways John Horn: LinkedInStubGroup: Online Advertising That Actually WorksRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Let's face it, we all suffer from imposter syndrome at some point or another. The key message here is that you are not alone, and your best bet to manage your imposter syndrome is to change the relationship you have with your inner critic. Today we're going to talk about imposter syndrome, a psychological pattern in which an individual doubts their skills, talents or accomplishments, and has a persistent internalised fear of being exposed as a fraud! Once we realise we all suffer from imposter syndrome and we can do something about it, we can start to take control. So in today’s episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I share some strategies for changing your inner voice from a critic to a more supportive (coaching) voice and 6-steps to overcome that negative voice in your head to have a better relationship with your inner critic and consequently tone down your feelings of being an imposter and being found out! Time Stamp [1:29] What is imposter syndrome? [2:32] Keypoint #1: Everyone suffers from imposter syndrome at some point or another, including all the most successful entrepreneurs. [3:01] Keypoint #2: It's not about getting rid of imposter syndrome, it's about having a more healthy relationship with your inner voice. [3:23] Keypoint #3: There are certain traits that entrepreneurs have that can lead to imposter syndrome: [3:33] How being a ‘perfectionist’ can lead to imposter syndrome [4:04] How being an ‘expert’ can lead to imposter syndrome [4:47] How being a ‘poor delegator’ can lead to imposter syndrome [5:09] How trying to be superman/superwoman can lead to imposter syndrome [5:25] Tips to manage that inner voice in your head [6:03] The 21-day challenge to change a behaviour [7:17] How to overcome your imposter syndrome [9:36] Why the idea of journaling can help [10:48] How to find the balance between your successes and failures [13:06] 6 Steps in managing imposter syndrome [13:12] Step #1: Acknowledge that everybody suffers from this and talk about it. [13:22] Step #2: Separate feelings from facts. [13:44] Step #3: Develop a healthy response to failure and mistakes [14:14] Step #4: Write the rules and recognise that you have as much right as the next person to be wrong, to have an off day or to ask for help. [14:35] Step #5: Do what professional athletes do and visualise success e.g. spend time beforehand picturing yourself making an amazing presentation or public speech. [14:54] Step #6: ‘fake it till you make it’ or ‘act as if.’ Quotations “..the key message in today's episode is that you are not alone, and your best bet to manage your imposter syndrome is to change the relationship you have with that voice in your head, that inner critic.” - Rob Da Costa “I find having a realistic to-do list every day really helps because it helps me feel accomplished… I'm focused on the most important things in my business through moving my business forward and with no distractions.” - Rob Da Costa “We need to be kind to ourselves.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Cloudways Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

How effective and efficient is your business development? Do you have a process in place that generates a consistent flow of ideal clients? If not, then listen to today’s podcast interview with my guest, Katie Street, the Founder and Managing Director of Street Agency. As you will hear, successful business development starts by getting your agency’s positioning clarified then building robust marketing plans that deliver outreach campaigns and leads Katie explains that we need to lead by solving our client’s problems and by providing value in our marketing (‘serve not sell’). Time Stamp [1:51] How Katie landed in the business development world [6:17] The key differences between successful and less successful agencies in the aspect of growth and new business [11:47] Reasons why sales and marketing are important for your agencies growth [14:14] Tips in developing easy, consistent and reusable content [20:24] How to learn the language of your target audience [23:48] The best practices in winning new business opportunities [28:15] How to attract high-quality leads [32:36] The biggest impact of the pandemic for new businesses [37:23] Katie’s advice to her younger self Quotations “ I think initially, most agencies go wrong because they don't actually reserve the time or give the new business the time, respect, and money that it needs to really flourish.” - Katie Street “Doing something is better than nothing. Do things that are going to be. You could say we're all different. Do something that's going to be easy for you and think about how you can reuse that content.” - Katie Street “The biggest piece of advice that I can give is to think about your audience and what their problems are (and you'll know this because your audience is your clients). If you're solving problems for your clients all the time, you'll start to see trends because that is what we agencies do. We do solve problems usually.” - Katie Street Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Cloudways Katie Street: [email protected]; LinkedInRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

How niche is too niche? And, how niche are you? I know that's a lot of niches in one sentence! But it’s such an important topic that it deserves that many ‘niches’! Any of you who listen to my podcast regularly or read my content will know that I am a massive fan of niching. But it strikes me that a lot of people think they have a clear niche, but when I check them out, they don't. They tell me about their niche but when I check their website or social media content, they don’t show up as clearly focused on the niche they claim to be in. Why is this? Well, I think they are hedging their bets. So, let me remind you why I think having and committing to your niche is so important. Time Stamp [1:01] What does it mean to have a clear niche? [1:54] Why understanding your niche is important [2:46] Advantages of having a clearly defined niche [4:06] Tips in figuring out your niche [5:26] How to stand out from the crowd to more easily reach your target audience [7:09] Reasons why you must stay committed to your niche [7:37] The impact of broadening or narrowing down a niche [8:40] The difference between a generalist and a specialist [9:52] How my niche has ebbed and flowed over the years [11:49] Four ways you can segment your niche Quotations “When you have a clear niche. It means you can produce products and services that you know your audience wants, rather than making a huge mistake of selling products that you think they need.” - Rob Da Costa “When you have a clearly defined niche, you can also REALLY understand your ideal target customer and their specific needs, challenges, pains that your product or service can solve.” - Rob Da Costa “..niching is definitely one of the ways where you can minimise the pool of your competition and get much more laser-focused on who your ideal target customer is.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: CloudwaysHow to Define Your Niche (free eBook)The Self-Running Agency BookThe Self-Running Agency Implementation GroupRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

How can building online communities help your agency’s marketing strategy? In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am joined by Anthony Burke, the Owner of “Brits in Dubai”, as he shares his journey building and monetising online communities as well as his story of living in Dubai and what inspired him to start his community. Brits in Dubai is a private Facebook Group that originated in 2014 and is dedicated to helping British expats settle and thrive in the UAE. A great place to get advice, support and network. Since then, the group has grown into the number one British expat group with more than 25,000 members and over half a million posts in the last six months alone! How can you apply what Anthony has learned and achieved in your agency business? That is what we set out to explore in this episode. Time Stamp [1:29] Anthony’s journey to building a number 1 Facebook community [6:00] Tips on how to build momentum in your group [9:11] How much time is needed to invest in managing an online community? [11:21] Why delivering great value is important in monetising a Facebook Group [13:55] What is the best and cost-effective way to build professional partnerships [15:44] Why you should ‘go unique’ [16:50] Building landing pages and searching the best keywords [18:37] How to find the balance in delivering the value and selling your products/ services [20:18] The importance of building your email list [21:20] Tips in marketing your products/services to the members of the group [26:50] The impact of Covid in business decision making [28:33] Living the ‘digital nomad lifestyle’ [31:44] What is Anthony’s advice to his younger self Quotations “The thing that I always tell my audience is that when you are creating outbound communications, whether it be through a Facebook group, email marketing, social media, videos or whatever, you need to get this balance of 80% providing value and only 20% selling. ” - Rob Da Costa “It's about being human, and it's about being real and authentic. If you have a community, listen to what your community needs, then you make sure you produce products and services that they want as opposed to thinking about what's better for them, and you're going to create something that nobody ever buys because they don't actually need it.” - Rob Da Costa “I'd always say, ‘go with your gut. If it works fantastic, if it doesn't, there are more options.’” - Anthony Burke Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Anthony Burke - Facebook, Brits in Dubai Facebook GroupGot questions for Anthony? Email him at [email protected] Da Costa’s YouTube Channel The Self-Running Agency BookGet in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Let me ask you a question: What is your website for? Is it just ‘brochureware’ (a place to learn more about your business) or are you aiming for it to be something more, such as a way of generating a consistent pipeline of new leads? The answer is that it should be the latter. So in this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I share my thoughts around some of the fundamental do’s and don't about getting your website to work more effectively for you and also some key strategies to consistently generate leads from it. Time Stamp [1:09] Why you should make sure your website isn’t full of ‘we’!! [2:01] The importance of quickly building empathy with your readers [2:46] What is the anatomy of a successful website, what does a great website look like? [5:03] Tips on how to drive traffic to your website [8:58] How to convert leads [9:23] Four stages to drive traffic to your website [10:51] Tips in creating your ‘killer content’ [11:46] Killer content Myth #1: ‘I need lots of gated content on my website’ [12:14] Killer content Myth #2: ‘It needs to be long to deliver value.’ Quotations “..remember that your ultimate goal with your website is to generate leads. The way you're going to generate leads is by getting people to sign up to your email list, and then you're going to nurture them through the buyer's journey.” - Rob Da Costa “..drive traffic from all your different channels, where your target audience hangs out, to your website and then, once they are there, get them to take action, which means them giving you their email address (in return for your killer content).” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Related podcast: Episode 79 - Using A Lead Magnet To Get New Subscribers To Your Mailing ListRelated podcast: Episode 55 - The do's and don'ts of using email marketing to generate new businessTool: Work out your Time To Conversion Ebook: Define your Ideal Target Customer Video: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

What happens when you win a big client that makes up a significant proportion of your monthly revenue, and consequently demands a disproportionate amount of your time? Well, excitement can quickly turn to long hours, and that, in turn, can detract your attention away from your other paying clients. In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I share some of my thoughts about the pros and the cons of winning and relying on a large client for your agency. If you are in this situation (and many have been) then I will also explore how to mitigate your risks. Time Stamp [1:06] The excitement of winning a big client [1:26] How to avoid over-servicing your clients [2:11] Importance of getting your team clear about service levels [2:33] Tips in handling big clients [3:28] How to win new clients (so you are not just dependent on 1 or 2 big clients) [4:13] What is the biggest challenge in running an agency? [5:12] Importance of identifying the risk as early as possible [5:40] How to anticipate famine on your agency [7:39] The importance of having your business development and plan in place [9:12] Why you should not focus on one big client Quotations “..my advice to anybody that is thinking about putting all their client eggs into one basket because they've won one really big client is you need to spread your risk one way or another. And I would ask you to ask yourself what would be the impact to my agency on my business if I lost this one big client..” - Rob Da Costa “Something else to bear in mind is that larger clients can often be worse payers and can have a significant impact on your revenue and your cash flow. Just make sure that you are getting really clear around payment terms.” - Rob Da Costa “Just remember that having the lion's share of your business tied to another company also means your fortunes are tied to theirs if their business flounders, if they change tact or they decide to move supplier, you could find yourself out in the cold through no fault of your own without sufficient alternative sources of revenue.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: eBook: How to avoid feast or famine in your agencyVideo: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Let's face it, many of us started our own business because we're control freaks - we want to be in control! We may have worked for a business before where we didn't like the way they ran things or thought we could do it better. And that's often the catalyst to start our own business. But what happens when control comes at the expense of the flexibility and freedom that we hoped we would get when we started out on our own? In today's episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I share my thoughts about achieving flexibility, freedom AND control, why creating a plan is so important and some of my own personal successes and failures in my entrepreneurial journey. Also, I talk about the importance of efficiency in how you use your time, my future aspirations to work a 4-day work week, and how I am achieving this by hiring the right team. Time Stamp [1:56] Early struggles and challenges in my marketing career [2:37] How to be in control of your own destiny [3:01] What’s my belief about success and failure? [3:55] Tips in achieving flexibility, control, and freedom as an agency owner [4:43] The importance of creating a plan [5:11] Why you should start hiring (the right) people [6:19] Three (3) ways on how you can spend your time [7:25] The importance of having solid foundations in place [8:01] How to focus on your marketing strategy [8:34] Why I believe creating a succession plan is important [9:59] What are my future aspirations [12:26] How to work a 4-day quality work [13:21] How the pandemic removes roadblocks from our plans and stories [14:05] Importance of delegation and having the right team [15:15] Why you should always keep going back to the reason you started your business Quotations “I still believe that my successes are my successes, and my failures are my failures, and that's one of the reasons why I love running my own business.” - Rob Da Costa “..If you're very intentional about your direction, you have much more chance of retaining control but also getting the flexibility and freedom in place as well.” - Rob Da Costa “You have to put the infrastructure of the foundations in place to grow to the next level and then put the next set of foundations to grow to the next level again.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Live Masterclass: “How to Easily Fill Your Sales Pipeline With High Quality Leads in The Next 90-Days or Less!”eBook: Winning Back Time - Productivity Tools & TipsVideo: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

How long does it take for a new lead that comes into your agency to be converted into a client? This is such an important number to know (yet few do) so in this episode, I'm going to explain why understanding this time to conversion is so important and what you should do once you know this number. I think that you're going to be really surprised at how long the typical sales cycle is so I'm going to give you a tool to help you work this number out for your agency. So, in today’s episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I will answer one of the most important questions to know: How long does it take to convert a lead to a loyal customer? And what are the tools, techniques and marketing strategies that you can implement to help move people through your sales funnel? Time Stamp [2:08] The most common marketing mistake for agency owners [3:18] Why you need to nurture and educate your leads [4:01] The importance of knowing your time to conversion number [4:59] Using your marketing to stay front of the mind with your target audience [6:54] Three stages in developing a relationship with your leads [8:09] Why building your email list is important in reducing your time to conversion [8:57] Rob’s advice to his younger self [9:37] What is education-based marketing? [10:41] Tips to focus and add value in your content [12:29] How to come up with ‘killer content’ for your agency [13:39] The real reasons why clients come to you Quotations “You need to have a way of consistently being in front of your target customers so that when they have a need, they know that you're the person to talk to because they understand who you are.” - Rob Da Costa “80% of your content should be all about providing value. And, of course, to do that you need to really understand exactly who your ideal target customer is” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Time to Conversion free tool & videoLive Masterclass: “How to Easily Fill Your Sales Pipeline With High Quality Leads in The Next 90-Days or Less!”eBook: Turning Cold Contacts Into Loyal Customers - How to Define Your Sales Funnel and Increase ConversionsPodcast: The Agency Accelerator Podcast Ep. 5 - The Importance of Building Your Mailing ListPodcast: The Agency Accelerator Podcast Ep. 79 - Using a Lead Magnet to Get New Subscribers to your Mailing ListVideo: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

How powerful are customer video testimonials in helping win new clients? In today's episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I'm joined by Adam O'Leary from TrustScout. We talked about both his entrepreneurial journey and also the value of getting video testimonials from existing customers to help you win new customers. Adam shares some of his experiences and key learnings as he has grown his agencies, including what he believes every entrepreneur should focus on and how to get rid of all that other stuff that can be just a distraction! We also talked about video testimonials: how to get video testimonials from your customer, when you should ask your customer and why video testimonials are such a powerful way to quickly build trust and credibility. Time Stamp [3:38] Adam’s journey in the entrepreneurial world [5:11] The importance of testimonials videos in the buyer’s journey [6:03] The difference between written testimonials and video testimonials [7:19] The best time to ask your client for a video testimonial [8:59] Tips on what kind of questions to ask in video testimonials [10:22] How to maximise the use of video testimonials in your marketing [11:59] How to make video testimonials authentic [13:07] How you can use TrustScout software in your agency [16:23] The good and bad of running an agency [19:29] How Adam finds the balance in running two businesses [22:01] The importance of fully automating as much of your business processes as possible [24:17] Tips in running an agency [27:51] Adam O'Leary’s advice to his younger self Quotations “ I think what puts people off is they think they have to create highly produced videos. But sometimes the rawer, the more real it looks and therefore people are more likely to believe it.” - Rob Da Costa “ There are really only two things in your business that you should focus on: traffic or sales.” - Adam O'Leary “..try fast and fail fast” - Adam O'Leary Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Live Masterclass: “How to Easily Fill Your Sales Pipeline With High Quality Leads in The Next 90-Days or Less!”Get in touch with Adam O'Leary: LinkedIn, TrustScoutVideo: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

I was sitting with a client last month and we were discussing business development. They are in the fortunate position to be generating between 20 and 30 new inquiries each month because they've really worked on making their website generate new leads. However, whilst some of these inquiries looked promising at the start, they seem to follow a similar pattern that results in the client working long hours to get the proposals written and then the prospect disappears! So this week's episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast focuses on the topic of qualifying leads BEFORE you spend a ton of time on them. This means that you're investing your limited time on the hot prospects and rooting out those enquiries that are just information gatherers. Also, you will learn six (6) tips and strategies that you can start applying immediately in your agency to implement a faster lead qualification process. Time Stamp [2:54] Funnel marketing activities [3:18] The consequence of focusing your time on the wrong prospects [6:45] #1 You must get a sense of a prospect’s budget and if they won’t give you that, then it’s a good indication that it’s early in their buying process and they might just be on a fact-finding expedition! [7:35] #2 There are some techniques you can use to ‘encourage’ them to give you a budget or at least an idea of their budget range (this is something I teach my Self-Running Agency Implementation Group Members how to do) [9:04] #3 How to know if it's time to walk away from a prospect [10:35] #4 For most of us, time is our most valuable commodity, so you want to invest as little time as possible in early discussions with prospects – use pre-written email templates to quickly follow-up leads to filter them ‘in’ or ‘out’ [10:44] #5 The further down the sales funnel the prospects go, the more time you should be willing to invest [11:54] #6 Once you agree to a meeting and then agree to write a proposal, get a date in the diary (during that meeting) for the follow-up conversation. This gives you the best chance of keeping momentum once you’ve sent the proposal Quotations “..there's nothing wrong with people who are in information-gathering mode, and they may well one day become your perfect client, and they're not ready now. But you should not be using your time to educate them.” - Rob Da Costa “..the secret here is to identify the hot prospects that you're going to invest your time in and get rid of those others as quickly as possible..” - Rob Da Costa “This is why having these pre-written email templates is a great idea because they may not be a fit for you today, but they may be the right kind of client for you in the future..”- Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Training: FREE 60-minute Sales Pipeline TrainingeBook: How to define your ideal target customer or customer avatarPodcast: The Agency Accelerator Podcast Episode 41: Business Development Strategies Part 1Podcast: The Agency Accelerator Podcast Episode 43: Business Development Strategies Part 2 Podcast: The Agency Accelerator Podcast Episode 44: Business Development Strategies Part 3Video: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Why do so many agency owners struggle to increase their prices? Every January, I get a letter in the post from my utility companies telling me that their prices are increasing. We are used to receiving this kind of increase. In fact, we expect it, so we don't question it and we just move on. What can agencies learn from this? In this latest episode of The Agency Accelerated Podcast, I explore strategies to increase your prices in a way that you feel comfortable with and the client is more than happy to pay for (because they continue to see the value in what you're delivering). This applies to both existing clients and new clients. I explore the different pricing models agencies use as well as some tips and strategies to ensure your clients value what you do. Finally I discuss why mindset is the key to increasing your prices and charging a fair fee for the work you deliver. Time Stamp [1:13] Why should agencies increase their price every year? [2:02] The importance of having the right mindset in pricing [2:34] Different pricing models [3:08] Reasons why you shouldn’t sell your time to clients [4:06] Understanding transformation of pricing from being in pain to not being in pain [5:13] An overview of value-based pricing [5:43] Difference between value-based and time-based pricing [6:55] Tips in positioning yourself with clients [8:06] The importance of having a niche Quotations “You need to focus on the thing that the client really cares about - which is the outcome and the transformation from being in pain to not being in pain.” - Rob Da Costa “..you all know that a niched agency is always gonna be able to charge more than a generalist. So having a clear niche will also help you increase your prices because you will be seen as a specialist, not a generalist.” - Rob Da Costa “50% of getting your pricing right is getting your mindset right.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Price Increase Template Learn more about pricing in my free upcoming training. Save your seat here.Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Any of you who listen to my podcast regularly will know that when I have a guest, I ask them what advice they would give their younger selves just starting out in business if they could go back in time. Now some of you have asked me, “well Rob what would you say to your younger self?” So, the piece of advice I would give my younger self is to start building my email list as soon as I started my business. If I had figured that out earlier, I would have a much bigger list now. And more importantly, I would have a much bigger pool of ideal target customers to nurture and ‘fish’ from. So in today's episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, I want to revisit one of my favourite topics because it's one of the most valuable things you can do in your agency and talk about the importance of building your mailing list, and more specifically, how to get new subscribers to join your list. Now I've spoken about the importance of building your list before (in episodes 5 and 30), but today I want to dig in to specifically discuss how you can get more subscribers. Time Stamp [0:14] What advice would I give my younger self if I could go back in time? [2:43] The importance of building a mailing list [3:40] What is the best structure for an email? [4:04] How to win new clients [4:55] Understanding the value of a ‘lead magnet’ [8:00] What is the best place to get people to start engaging with your lead magnet? [8:56] An overview of how a sales page works [10:34] The components of an email automation system [14:39] How to set up a sequence of emails in an email automation system? Quotations “Every business will have two or three marketing activities that work well for them and deliver good results.” - Rob Da Costa “..the bigger the list, the more value you will get from it. And communicating regularly with your list means that you're keeping your list clean and you are keeping them connected with your agency.” - Rob Da Costa “Remember, your goal with these emails is to nurture them through the sales funnel so that you can identify your five-star prospects (your hot prospects) and start having a more personalised engagement with them.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: MailchimpActiveCampaignWordPressThrive ArchitectKartraExample lead magnet: Your Email Welcome SequenceRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Does your agency have a robust SEO and backlink strategy in place? If not you should, and in this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am joined by one of my clients and one of The Self-Running Agency Group members, Richard Kennedy, who explains why SEO and a backlink strategy is a must. Richard runs an e-commerce SEO agency, Arken Marketing. Arken helps SME e-commerce businesses grow and compete against the big players in the market, by utilising effective SEO. Richard shares how he started Arken Marketing and how he helps SME e-commerce businesses grow and compete using SEO and backlink strategies Time Stamp [1:11] Backstory in building an SEO agency and Richard’s future aspirations for Arken Marketing [4:24] How to figure out your niche when starting up an agency [6:36] Tips in niching down your business [9:17] Defining SEO in a broader context [10:37] What are the advantages of using SEO over PPC? [11:56] The importance of being ranked organically [12:24] Why SEO is an effective strategy for your business [13:05] Benefits of link building for your website [14:14] Understanding link building, domain authority rankings and backlinks [17:21] How to implement link building strategies [19:11] How to distinguish a good backlink from a bad backlink [22:21] What is the deciding factor if a link is worth pursuing or not? [22:50] Tips in creating SEO strategies for your business [24:11] What is the ‘dream 100’ system? [26:19] How to build good quality and trustworthy website [29:26] Why ‘focus’ is important for your business’ SEO strategy Quotations “I don't want to be too big, but I've always wanted it to fuel my other projects.” - Richard Kennedy “...not every business defines its success by how big it is or how fast it grows.” - Rob DaCosta “We only work with people that we want to work with and they want to work with us and it's made it a whole lot easier in the long run in the short term.” - Richard Kennedy “..the website needs to be trustworthy… approachable... Having good content makes everything so much easier.” - Richard Kennedy “..you just can't replicate success through copying.” - Richard Kennedy “..building your dream 100 list is actually one of the systems that we teach in The Self-Running Agency Group.” - Rob DaCosta Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Richard Kennedy - LinkedIn; Arken Marketing Got questions for Richard? Email him at [email protected] Da Costa’s YouTube Channel The Self-Running Agency Implementation GroupGet in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Why do so many agency owners aspire to build an agency that is less dependent on them (i.e a self-running agency) but completely fail? They end up building a business that they work for (instead of working for them) with the worst boss in the world! So in this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I explore how to ensure you build an agency on your own terms: one that you stay in control of and one that ultimately could be running itself. Time Stamp [0:00] The 4-day work experiment from Amy Porterfield’s online marketing made easy podcast [0:45] The concept of running a self-running business [2:26] Staying connected with your mission and vision statement [3:18] What does real success look like? [3:53] How to reconnect with your ‘why’ in running an agency [4:29] Transitioning from face-to-face coaching to online meetings [6:00] Why I can spend my winters in South Africa [7:43] The importance of focusing on the journey and not just the destination [7:57] How I am moving towards becoming a ‘digital nomad’ [9:05] What are the technical equipment I need [9:59] Understanding how to best use a VA and the structures I use [11:47] What I am doing this year to take control of how I want to run my business Quotations “We are surrounded by stories of super successful entrepreneurs who make it sound so easy and have supposedly made their millions and are trying to tempt you to strive for the same thing - it’s almost as if - if we don’t aspire to that then we are failing.” - Rob DaCosta “..growth in a financial sense doesn’t always mean success.” - Rob DaCosta “..wait for some future point when everything will be better and forget to live my life within the constraints of what we are able to do now.” - Rob DaCosta Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Have you ever dreamt about earning passive income, (i.e. earning money that isn't directly connected to selling your time)? Have you ever thought about taking what you deliver for your clients and turning it into an online programme, a course, or a membership site? A number of my clients have so I thought it would be a great topic for a podcast. In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am joined by David Miles, CEO of The PPC Machine. The PPC Machine is an agency that helps mortgage brokers generate high-quality leads from their website using PPC and website optimisation. David shares how he's taken his PPC services and developed an online membership programme. We explore why he choose a membership programme over other online models, we look at some of the tech he has in place to run his membership, and the challenges and pitfalls he experienced as he developed his programme. Time Stamp [2:37] What was the catalyst to begin exploring and creating an online programme? [4:43] How to explore different online models - from membership programmes to one-off courses. [5:37] The reasons for choosing membership model over a standard course [8:05] Understanding the structure of an overall online programme [13:04] How to encourage members to take action for online learning success [14:04] What is the current status of David Miles’ PPC online programme? [14:50] The biggest challenge in creating an online programme [17:40] The component parts and tech tools that best work for The PPC Machine [21:06] Tips in selling membership programme [23:38] What advice to give to the listeners who plan to take their business online? [27:21] Tips in pre-selling an online programme [29:20] What are the things that David Miles would have done differently if he were to start over again? [30:41] How to determine the pricing for an online programme [34:16] What would David Miles’ advice be to his younger self? Quotations “Moving your 1-2-1 services to an online programme makes your business more scalable. You can reach more people.” - David Miles “I think a really good bit of advice that you don't need to have everything ready at launch. In fact, if you're launching a programme yourself, you need to create a minimum viable offer..“ - Rob DaCosta “..no one is going to judge how good your programme is by the quantity of content. You don't need content about everything. You just need to have good quality content.” - Rob DaCosta “Launch with a minimum viable product so that don't don't feel you've got to spend six months or a year creating something huge before you launch, because the big risk if you do that you might be creating something that nobody wants and then you've wasted a year of your life, so decide what your minimum viable product is.” - David Miles Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: David Miles, The PPC MachineThrive ApprenticeVimeoScreencast-O-MaticZoom Mighty NetworksStrivveKartraMemberMouseKajabiRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel The Self-Running Agency BookGet in touch with Rob at [email protected]

One of the things that all agency owners, freelancers, and indeed any kind of business owner is short of is time. But how do we separate being a busy fool from using our time productively? In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I want to share with you five (5) ideas and strategies that will help you become more productive. Now, these are ideas that I use in my own business, and I also teach my clients so I know that they will work, and I know where they will work for you. Time Stamp [1:57] How to be successful in running a business [3:01] The importance of having a plan for your business [3:56] 5 tips to becoming more productive [3:59] #1 Create a daily schedule [6:13] #2 Delegate, delegate, and delegate! [9:38] #3 Limit your email checking – ideally twice or 3 times a day [12:42] #4 Use technology to aid your productivity [15:46] #5 Create space for ‘thinking time' Quotations “..remember, if you want to make a difference to how efficient you are, you've got to do something different.” - Rob Da Costa “The golden rule is to make sure at the end of the day you have ticked off every item in your to-do list rather than just creating a longer list which feels very dispiriting and is a really typical scenario.” - Rob Da Costa “..my favourite expression which is, ‘Slow down to speed up.’” - Rob Da Costa “At the start, you really need to think about how you can make these ideas work for you rather than sitting there thinking why they won't work for you. You also need to be disciplined in implementing these ideas because, after all, it takes 21 days to change a behaviour. So, be determined to stick with your new strategies, and find a way of holding yourself to a count.”- Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Marvin SaneBoxProductivity Pack: E-books and cheat sheet about mindset, delegation, and time managementRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Cloudways (enter AA20 to get a 20% discount off your first 3 months) Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Recruitment is such a hot topic at the moment. I know everyone is finding it tough, so today we’ll be talking about the biggest challenges in recruitment. In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, we are joined by Ugis Balmaks, who runs his own recruitment company, Recruiter Mill that helps agencies hire great staff. He shares some interesting insights about the current state of the industry, the recruitment process, tips on how to recruit people, and how to give yourself the best chance to be successful. Time Stamp [02:50] Ugis Balmaks’ back story on how he started in recruitment: his first hired employee, his biggest learning experience in recruitment, and more about his company. [6:35] Pros and cons of hiring an in-house staff vs remote worker [9:00] How to recruit people during these challenging times in the U.K [11:16] Do’s and don’ts in recruitment [14:36] The marketing funnel steps in the recruitment process [18:58] Tips in filtering job applications [22:22] How to assess cultural competence during the interview [26:23] Why honesty is the best policy throughout the recruitment process [27:37] Difference between hiring employees directly and outsourcing through a recruitment agency [30:11] How to choose the right recruitment agency [33:12] Why you should get involved in the recruitment agency decision making in hiring [36:08] What is Ugis Balmaks’ best recruitment advice? Quotations “So often in life, learn the lessons in life the hard way and they are the best lessons that we learn.” - Rob Da Costa “..that's kind of was a huge wake-up call to what can happen if when hiring is done poorly, which it was at that time. And it led me to kind of start and explore how I could hire better.” - Ugis Balmaks “Hiring is such inexact science that someone can show up really well at the interview, but then they fail to deliver spectacularly once they start working.” - Rob Da Costa “Yeah, it's almost like any other marking funnel where you see the numbers and when something's not working, you can see exactly where it's not working, and then you go in and I can fix it.” Ugis Balmaks “You have the opportunity to learn from others’ mistakes and see what this that they're not, including kind of really try to put them into shoes of a person that would want to work with you, or that you would want to hire...” - Ugis Balmaks “My favourite expression which is ‘Slow down to speed up.’ Like take your time, go through these steps… because you want to hire right.” - Rob Da Costa “No one else knows your business better than you do… But your gut instinct is also going to give you a lot of safety and security.” - Ugis Balmaks “Hiring the best people you possibly can afford, so that you can delegate down and relinquish as much control today as possible.”- Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Ugis Balmaks - Recruiter MillDownload Your Recruitment Summary Notes & Actions Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Cloudways (enter AA20 to get a 20% discount off your first 3 months) The Self-Running Agency BookThe Agency Selling System (enter PODCAST10 for a discount) Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Life’s been a bit crazy for me in the last few months. I’ve been juggling so many things that led me to feeling burned out. I realised I need to work smarter and start doing less whilst remaining as effective as I was before. In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I share what I have been doing to simplify my life and get renewed focus for my business. Time Stamp [01:55] There are so many distractions and noise in life that put pressure on me to do more of so many things. I realised I need some kind of filter to work out what I really need to keep doing and what I can stop doing - all whilst remaining productive and effective. [04:10] Use the 4 Ds of Eisenhower’s Square to assess tasks - Can I DITCH this task? Can I DELEGATE it to somebody else? Can I DEFER it? I have to DO it. [04:52] I’ve added 2 more Ds and an A. [04:56] The A is Automate. Are there tools or systems I use to run my business that can be automated? (Example: Appointment setting) [05:46] The fifth D is does a task make a DIFFERENCE? [05:57] The sixth D is do I enjoy DOING it? [06:17] Six things I’ve done in my business to simplify and give me renewed focus. [06:37] # 1: Reconnect with my vision. [08:06] # 2: Put a pause on a time-intensive mastermind group I’m part of. [09:13] # 3: Choose the focus of my social media efforts. I chose LinkedIn as my main social media platform. [10:24] # 4: Resurrect my Youtube channel. [12:17] # 5: Stop being distracted by new shiny objects! [12:59] # 6: Work with a project manager who will manage other specialists’ tasks for the business. Quotations “Is this really driving my business forward? If the answer is ‘I’m not sure’ or ‘No’, then we really need to ask ourselves why we’re doing it.” - Rob Da Costa “Doing something because you’ve always done it is not a good reason to keep doing it!” - Rob Da Costa “All of the things you’re doing are there to help you win new business and be excellent at client delivery.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Rob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Cloudways (enter AA20 to get a 20% discount off your first 3 months) The Self-Running Agency BookThe Agency Selling System (enter PODCAST10 for a discount) Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am excited to be joined by Michelle and Christian Ewen, owners of Write on Time Ltd, a Public Relations (PR) agency. They have a vision of helping business owners to grow and thrive through positive media coverage and industry awards recognition. This episode is all about PR and how it fits in your marketing strategy. Time Stamp [1:39] Michelle and Christian’s story of crossing from journalism into the agency world [2:45] Deciding factors in starting a PR agency business [4:52] How Michelle and Christian Ewen found their calling in the middle of the pandemic! [7:55] Importance of having PR in your marketing strategy. [9:20] When an established media or publication writes about you, it helps not only to amplify your message but also to strengthen your credibility. [10:21] If you can get your organization mentioned in an article in a key publication, it is a big help for your SEO strategy. [11:15] How to measure the effectiveness of your PR marketing strategy [15:24] How to manage clients in setting the right PR goals for their business [19:04] Tips and tricks on starting to do PR for your business [24:32] The Pros and Cons of a husband and wife working together [31:33] Stay tuned for ‘The 5-Day PR Challenge’ by Michelle and Christian Ewen [33:25] What advice would Michelle and Christian Ewen give their younger selves? Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Connect with Michelle and Christian Ewen:LinkedIn: Michelle; ChristianWrite on Time LtdUpcoming The 5-Day PR Challenge (FREE)Cloudways (enter AA20 to get a 20% discount off your first 3 months) The Self-Running Agency BookThe Agency Selling System (enter PODCAST10 for a discount) Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

Today, I want to talk to you all about partnerships. Partnerships are a really smart way for small businesses to win new businesses. They give you reach far beyond your own audience, and managing one relationship can deliver several clients and new leads into your agency. So in this episode, I want to share with you the two types of partnerships you should be pursuing and some dos and don’ts in finding and managing partners. Time Stamp [02:01] Why partnerships are such a good idea [03:00] The two types of partnerships you should be focused on [03:44] What are marketing partnerships? [06:34] What are new business partnerships? [07:39] How to create your ‘Dream 50 List - a target list of people that you would like to partner with either from a marketing or new business perspective [08:13] How to work out a strategy to approach your target marketing partners [12:26] The importance of addressing your potential partner’s fears of getting into the partnership and as well the benefits [13:18] 5 key benefits of partnerships [14:07] 5 key fears your potential partner may have [15:18] Pitfalls to avoid in building partnerships and what to do to avoid these errors [20:23] Wrap up - Partnerships are a really smart way to reach a much wider audience. Quotations “If you have an amazing partner, then they deliver you multiple clients in one year.” - Rob Da Costa “Your ideal partner is someone who is targeting the same kind of customers that you are trying to reach but they are offering a different product or service.” - Rob Da Costa “When you’re doing your outreach, you have to answer that question of what’s in it for them.” - Rob Da Costa “Effort in is less than the results we get out.” - Rob Da Costa “Partnerships are a really smart way to reach a much wider audience.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Cloudways (enter AA20 to get a 20% discount off your first 3 months) The Self-Running Agency BookThe Agency Selling System (enter PODCAST10 for a discount) Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am excited to be joined by Marcel Petitpas and we are discussing everything to do with your agency’s profits, pricing and margins. Another action-packed episode so grab a pen and paper and be sure to take notes! Time Stamp [1:02] Let’s start by welcoming Marcel Petitpas, our guest for today’s episode. He is the founder of Parakeeto, which aims to help agencies become more profitable. Parakeeto is a software platform that helps users to create data-driven estimates. [1:40] The importance of focusing on agency pricing and profitability. [4:11] At what stage of an agency’s growth should they start implementing time-tracking systems? [7:06] The importance of understanding your business processes. [8:05] Pitfalls and tips to early prospect discussions [14:02] How to maximise profitability of a project [16:27] How to calculate Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) [19:07] What are key metrics for agencies to look at? Differentiate between Gross Margin and Average Available Rate. [25:20] How to make team members more commercial [28:51] How to implement the Agency Profitability Flywheel in your agency [33:32] A business paradox: Slow down to speed up [34:14] What are the best strategies to raise your prices [35:58] The ideal approach for value-based pricing. [36:34] Word of advice: “Say YES to things that scare you!” Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Connect with Marcel Petitpas www.parakeet.comAgency Profitability FlywheelAgency Profitability ToolkitThe Agency Profit PodcastCloudways (enter AA20 to get a 20% discount off your first 3 months) The Self-Running Agency BookThe Agency Selling System (enter PODCAST10 for a discount) Get in touch with Rob at [email protected]

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I want to talk about how to avoid feast or famine in your agency. I’ve been through it twice myself and was determined there not be a 3rd time! So I developed a series of strategies that I now share with my coaching clients and am sharing some of them with you today. So in today’s episode, I share 7 strategies to avoid feast or famine. Time Stamp [02:00] Let’s start by painting a picture that you will no doubt recognise. It’s all about being stuck on the ‘client service hamster wheel of doom’! But how do you break this cycle and get off the CSHWOD? [03:17] The bad decisions we make when we are in a space of famine. [03:45] My experience of being through the feast or famine cycle twice! [04:45] 7 Strategies to keep a consistent pipeline of new clients coming into your agency [05:35] Strategy 1: Ringfence time to work on business development [07:00] Strategy 2: Get clear on your ideal target customer [08:36] Strategy 3: Get your pricing right [09:49] Strategy 4: Build a robust biz development plan – do a few things and do them consistently well. Work out how to move them through the sales funnel of KNOW-LIKE-TRUST [12:40] Strategy 5: Focus on building your mailing list [14:50] Strategy 6: Build your brand so it's not just you (Your Self-Running Agency) [16:00] Strategy 7: Delegate as much client-facing work as possible [17:18] A quick recap of the 7 strategies [20:04] Outline of how The Agency Selling System can support your business development STOP PRESS! I will be running 3 live workshops on "How to Maximise Your Revenue & Profits Using 3 Pricing & Selling Strategies" in early June. Save your seat here (it's free!) Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Establishing Your Niche (free guide)Defining Your Ideal Target Customer (free workbook)Cloudways (enter AA20 to get a 20% discount off your first 3 months) The Self-Running Agency Book

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am joined by the founder of RIU Media, Romans Ivanovs. Romans shares with us how he has been able to build, recruit, and manage his agency by hiring freelancers rather than in-house employees. Here’s a glance at this episode… [03:09] Building an agency using freelancers Starting as a freelancer, Romans has found that hiring freelancers was the best approach to building his team and also the most budget-friendly and low risk! [05:14] Managing the day-to-day Romans recognises that being a great leader is the key to successfully growing an agency. You need to be a great delegator and trust your teams to deliver tasks. [08:49] Recruiting team members Though it may feel challenging to assess potential freelancers remotely, Romans recommends you take it slow and be diligent. Recruit against competency and fit. Ask yourself, will I get along with this person? Are they a team player? [12:37] Signing contracts Whilst signing non-disclosure agreements and contracts is standard, Roman relies on intuition, trust, and verbal agreements. Up until now, it’s safe to assume that this strategy has worked! [15:18] Measuring and monitoring performance When managing a remote workforce, it’s vital to be a great communicator. Weekly Zoom calls along with daily messages on Slack help a great deal. The key is to hire people who go the extra mile and are problem solvers. [19:22] Hiring the next person We discussed the challenges of growing organically and Romans cited that when the workload has become mentally demanding and too time consuming, this is usually a clear indicator to find the next person. [21:01] The Future of RIU Media First and foremost, the priority is to earn more industry credibility. And the only way to do this is by working with bigger, direct consumer brands like magazines or industry influencers. Next up is to open an office in London and build an in-house team. [22:54] Joining the Mastermind Programme The opportunity to work with other agencies from a variety of fields is what initially attracted Romans to join The Self-Running Agency implementation Group —especially learning from more established agencies. Realising that everyone struggles with the same issues forms a sense of community and helps you feel like you’re not alone. STOP PRESS! I will be running 3 live workshops on "How to Maximise Your Revenue & Profits Using 3 Pricing & Selling Strategies" in early June. Save your seat here (it's free!) Subscribe to The Podcast “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode”<– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: RIU MEDIA websiteROMAN’S LINKEDIN profileEMAIL: [email protected] (enter AA20 to get a 20% discount off your first 3 months)

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I revisit the topic of pricing. So often agencies focus early sales conversations on time to complete a task or the output of a project (e.g., a website or some copy) rather than the outcome the client is looking for (e.g., improved online presence) This episode was inspired by a recent story a client shared with me so I share that with you in this episode. [01:37] Copywriter anecdote; how NOT to deal with a client when you feel you have gone the extra mile? I share the story of a client who tasked a copywriter to create a new report. They faced an impasse because the copywriter invested an additional ½ day of work from the original 3 days of what was agreed upon. She thought she was going the extra mile by not charging for this half-day whilst the client was disappointed with the quality of the copy! [04:11] Supplier vs partnership relationships Starting a relationship by focusing on the outcome of what the client is looking for will create a partnership relationship. Often the supplier might be focused on selling time while the client is focused on the quality of the work, no matter how long it takes to complete. Entering the relationship with a clear vision can then help you price accordingly. [04:55] The 4 things we sell to our clients: Inputs, outputs, outcomes, and the long-term impact we have on our client; are the four aspects that must be considered to form a lasting, happy relationship with a client. [06:23] Long term relationships with clients Creating long-term relationships with clients means having transparency from the beginning. Have a conversation on what the client is expecting and remember that you are not selling time to the client, you are selling outcomes. [08:50] Value selling and selling on outcomes Whilst you need to sell outcomes to clients you still need to manage capacity internally and that means measuring time and efficiency. [11:05] Why value pricing and value selling is important A simple message: Whether the time of a procedure takes 30 minutes or 3 hours, the value is contingent on the outcome, not the amount of time it takes to complete. Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: The 10-Step Selling Systems to Win Higher Value Clients & Start Increasing Your Profits Cloudways

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am joined by Piccia Neri, a UX expert focusing on human-centred design. Piccia's goal is to help agencies and developers find success on their website by putting their users at the centre of design. [00:15] Background on Piccia Neri [02:55] Mistakes agencies make in design and concept The first thing to remember is you are not the person you are serving. When you put the client first, you create an engaging experience. Secondly, accessibility. By catering to everyone’s needs and disabilities, you broaden your reach of who you can help. [04:47] What is human-centred design and what does it mean to be a web designer? Putting the people that use your products at the centre while humanising the user (i.e., who you are designing and building for). We tend to forget that our websites are the first point of contact with our prospects. You have less than 5 seconds to make a good impression, so make it count! [08:18] Second biggest mistake; not testing Seeing as we suffer from ‘proximity blindness’ when working on a project, it is imperative to test and get feedback from our target audience BEFORE we ‘go live’. [13:55] Using forms as the opportunity to interact with a customer Just like with websites, forms should be made with accessibility in mind. More often than not, we are excluding people from filling out forms and surveys. Accessibility is the epitome of user-centred design. [17:08] How to approach design so that it is user-centric To create a user-centric design, extensive research is required, especially in the beginning. Start by learning how you can help. Also, keep in mind that research is not a linear process, be prepared to go back and forth. Launch early, test, perfect and tweak. [21:37] What are the expectations of your website and where does it fit in your marketing strategy? Research needs to starts with asking as many questions as you can to your clients. Why do you need a website? What purpose will it serve? What action do you want the user to take? [25:34] Designs for Conversion Conference The purpose of this conference is to help people make fundamental transformations by putting the user at the centre of design. This is the only conference of its kind where designers get to interact with non-designers. Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Cloudways - website Piccia - Linkedin profile Piccia – Twitter profile Design For Conversions Conference

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I dive into everything you need to know when considering developing and launching a new product or service. From knowing your market to research and product validation, I share all the tools needed to launch a successful product. Here’s a glance at this episode… [01:33] Launching a new product or service Before diving into launching a new product/service it’s important to recognise your reason for doing so. If it’s just to increase revenues, chances are this product will not meet your expectations and you should double down on your existing core services. [02:36] Two steps to follow when launching a new product: 1. Make sure you are clear about your core product. It is crucial that you must be seen as an expert with your current product before releasing a second one. 2. Make sure you know your market wants it! There’s a big difference between knowing that your market wants something versus thinking they need it. Expanding on your product portfolio directly correlates to meeting market demands. [05:37] Talking to your marketplace The only way to understand what your market needs is by researching and speaking with people. A good note to keep in mind is to record all conversations so you can utilise the language being used and identify key pain points that your product can solve. [08:02] Outlining your minimum viable product/offer Pre-selling a product before you formally launching is a sure way to discover if people are truly interested, before investing time and effort in developing and launching the full product. [11:38] Doing your research; two steps 1. Form focus groups to get feedback. From there you can refine the proposition. 2. After the proposition is refined, the 2nd step is to introduce this to your second audience. [13:02] After going through the research and validations phase: 1. Get the product service ready. After you’ve done your research and have validated, now is the time to fully develop the product or service. 2. Think about how you will market and sell. Strategise by going to your existing clients and letting them know this product exists, explain what it does and how it can help you solve any of their pain points. Even if the client is not ready to buy at the moment, email nurturing is a great way to keep in touch with people until they are ready to buy the product. Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I really enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode”<– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Links mentioned in this episode: · Blog: Pain killers vs Vitamin pills · Validation Guide

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am joined by the CEO and co-founder of uGurus, Brent Weaver. Brent and I had similar beginnings in the agency world. In this episode, Brent shares his journey and we look at how your agency can adapt and grow in 2021. [03:55] Adaptability, Specialisation, and Authority In times of global challenge, the only way for agencies to thrive and grow is by adapting (and listening to your clients), specialising, and building authority. Specialise by finding your niche - the more specific, the better, then broaden out over time. To build authority and awareness you should focus on growing your list of subscribers - so when clients are ready to buy, they reach out because you have stayed in touch and continued to provide value. [07:41] The fear of going niche Niching is the best way of separating yourself from the crowd and winning more business. Generalised agencies tend to differentiate by pricing (being cheaper than the competition) and overpromising. This is not a sustainable strategy. [13:30] Stay Focused It's easy to get distracted by new ways to bring in revenue. These ‘shiny new objects’ will be a distraction from your core services, and if you are not careful you will end up losing income. So get clear on who you are and what you offer and stay focused! [21:17] The Yes Mentality Just because you can do it does not mean you should do it. Think of your business as a system. This system can only continue to run well if it is not interrupted by adding in new services that don’t fit in your agency and you don’t have a system for. It's always best to refer these clients elsewhere rather than to make a mistake that may later cost you the client and lost revenue. [29:27] Getting agency owners to let go We often find agency owners continue to want to have their hand in every project or be in the know of every detail, but this is not possible if you're going to continue to grow. The only way to let go is by hiring all-star A-players who can do the task better than you! [34:05] Trends in 2021 The digital ecosystem is here to stay. Post pandemic companies are looking to shift and adapt, and with everything going digital, those who were resisting it before now have no choice but to evolve and grow ….or fail. Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode”<– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: · uGurus website · Cloudways website · Brent’s Linkedin profile · Brent’s Twitter profile

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I share my insights, experiences, and comparison between a reMarkable tablet vs. iPad - specifically what we can learn about their marketing and how it relates to your agency? Here’s a glance at this episode… [01:50] Distractions Like many, I can easily get distracted, so I try to allocate solid chunks of time to focus on specific day-to-day tasks such as working on my group coaching programme content or future strategies. The problem is when you’re working at your computer, notifications can distract you and there is the temptation to just jump onto the Internet. [02:26] What is a reMarkable tablet? I’m going to do a full review in a future episode (due to lots of people asking me about it!) but basically, it mimics the texture and feeling of writing on a paper without all the distractions of a multi-functional iPad. [02:40] Reason for Purchase I had 3 three reasons/goals for purchasing the tablet: To get more organisedTo get rid of paper & become paper-freeTo be more efficient [03:45] reMarkable vs. iPad I have an iPad and love it. It is a great device – it does many things & does them pretty well. On the other hand, the reMarkable tablet only does one thing & tries to be the best in the market at doing it. It is a replacement for a notebook for taking notes. [04:27] Generalist Agency vs. Niche Agency How does this relate to your agency? Well, the comparison between a reMarkable & iPad is very similar to the age-old debate about a generalist agency vs a niched agency. The price of a reMarkable is the same as an iPad, so why would you spend the same money on a device that does less? Well just like a niched agency, it does it better than a generalist. The niched agency understands its client’s pain & provides solutions to solve that pain - backed by tons of experience. [07:12] Thoughts on your Niche As I outline in my book (link below to grab your free copy). When you think of your niche, you can cut it in four ways: By geographyBy industryBy deliverable or serviceBy the problem you solve [09:13] Using reMarkable I use the reMarkable to take notes, e.g. When writing a podcastClient notesWorking on strategyAnd to get something out of my head! [10:04] Translating notes into text As long as your writing is not like a doctor’s scribble, you are good to go. The reMarkable will translate your handwriting into text. [11:42] Be like a reMarkable The reMarkable is a device aimed at people who want to focus on one thing, and it enables you to do that really well. Just as your agency should! If you are niched and tempted to broaden your services, only do it once you have dived deep on the core product that you already have—unless you bring the skills, systems, and a new area that can be scaled, you will never grow your agency, just dilute your focus. So be like a reMarkable; focus on one thing, do it well, and be the market leader before you start diversifying! Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I really enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode”<– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Links mentioned in this episode: Website: https://www.dacostacoaching.co.uk/ Grab a copy of my book (for free): The Self-Running Agency Buy the reMarkable: https://reMarkable.com/ Listen to more episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Website

In today’s show, I am chatting with Sam Wright, MD & Founder of Blink SEO. It is the first Customer Spotlight, where I talk to one of my clients about some of the challenges they’re facing, the lessons learned & their goals, so that you can learn from their business experience. Sam leads a team of 9 specialists at Blink, an eCommerce SEO digital agency. Here’s a glance at this episode… [01:37] Why did you start your agency? Before starting Blink, Sam worked in B2B publishing, producing online content. His transition into agency work was almost accidental. [06:37] Why did you decide to reach out to Rob? A lack of direction & a lack of identity led Sam to work with Rob. He had engaged with generalist advisors in the past but their advice tended to be too generic & therefore not all that useful. Certain challenges need practical advice based on real experience. [09:19] Having a lack of direction can lead to frustration. How did that influence Blink’s business? A lack of direction influences day-to-day decision-making-from which people to hire, time management, and which projects take on. [10:20] What is the benefit of being part of a group coaching programme? Since everyone in the group is in the same boat, group coaching provides a great sounding board to hear different approaches and opinions. Knowing that there are others in a similar position can also be reassuring, especially in a relatively isolated job. [11:56] What are your goals & aspirations for 2021? 2020 wasn’t all terrible for Blink – we’ve managed to double in size and grow the team. So our goal for 2021 is to grow by another 50% & become a leader in our sector. [13:00] What are some of the growing pains that Blink has gone through? And what do you attribute your rapid growth to? Team organisation is a challenge - with hybrid roles across most of the team, so should we bring in specialists instead? The hiring process is also can take many months. This means that you have to be able to predict where the business will be in 6 months. Sam attributes the rapid growth to finding and focusing on clients that are the best fit - understand their pain points and focus on solving those. They also have several long-term clients, a good referral pipeline, and there’s an emphasis on quality and effective communication. [17:11] What are some biz dev strategies that led to the 100% year-on-year growth? Initially, our business development was based on referrals. Now we focus mainly on inbound marketing. We have also hired a marketing manager to work on Blink as a brand. Sam has tried doing outsourced outbound sales but it has proven not to be anywhere near as effective as inbound. [21:19] Looking 5 years ahead, what is the future for Blink? Sam’s ambitions aren’t to grow too large. His goal is to become an industry leader in their niche whilst remaining a boutique agency. [22:13] My program & book are called “The Self-Running Agency.” How close is Blink to becoming more autonomous than it is now? The business is certainly closer to that than it was when it started thanks to you and your programme Rob! Sam will be able to test out exactly how close it is in June when he takes some time off to welcome his new child into the world! [23:43] What advice would you give your younger self? Get yourself a mentor! Doing it on your own is possible, but having others around with expertise will make the process happen more quickly. Useful Links: · Blink SEO Website · Sam Wright’s LinkedIn Profile · The Self-Running Agency Coaching programme · Da Costa Coaching Website Subscribe & Review Please consider reviewing my show Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast.

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I discuss why, when you're buying a software or a product online, you are offered three price points, with the middle one being highlighted as the most popular one. I unpack that and help you increase your prices to get your clients to pay what you are truly worth. Here's a glance at this episode. [00:48] Frustrations Many agencies struggle to get their pricing right. They are frustrated that they are not as profitable as they would like to be and are not constantly hitting their margin targets. [01:31] Three Typical Ways Agencies Charge You Selling your time. This is where you are exchanging money for your time, usually through charging by the hour or day. The flaw in this approach is that it encourages the client to focus on the wrong thing i.e., how you spent the hour rather than the outcome of the work you are delivering!Having a fixed project fee. This is where you estimate the project's cost at the beginning based on the scope of work agreed with the client and consequently the number of hours you estimate it will take to deliver the scope of work. You agree to a fixed fee based on these hours. The potential flaw with this approach is that the product's brief and scope can change and evolve. To please the client, you end up over-servicing them - cutting your margins.The retainer concept. This is where you agree on a set fee for each month and agree on the scope of work included within that fee. The potential challenge is that the client believes they have unlimited access to you because you are on the retainer. [8:43] Focusing on the Right Things I share three pieces of advice when it comes to pricing a project. Ensure that you understand the ultimate goal and price against the outcomes and impacts and not the bits and bytes you do for your client. Use three price points in your proposal. The high price point sets the higher anchor point; the lowest price sets the negative anchor point, which leads to the client buying the middle price point (and that leads you to achieve the price for the service you hope for).Put a contingency pot in place with your clients when you are setting the project's scope. If you have a £10,000 project, ask the client to put aside an additional 15% as a contingency pot. Then if you are asked to do something outside the agreed scope, you can call upon this money. [15:30] Having the Right Mindset Having the right mindset is crucial and can be the most significant battle you have around pricing! If you think this does not work for you, it does. We often tell ourselves stories about how the client will react to a certain price point or price increase and this stops us from changing our pricing. We just need to realise that they are stories and not facts! Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I really enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode”<– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Links mentioned in this episode: Website: https://www.dacostacoaching.co.uk/ Grab a copy of my book (for free): The Self-Running Agency Download my book on value pricing & selling Listen to more episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Website

Has Covid forced your team to work from home? Struggling to manage a remote workforce? Read on… In today’s episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, we are exploring managing a remote workforce and discussing some of the things we need to do to keep our staff motivated and connected. I’m really excited to have Melanie Coeshott join me today to talk about this really important topic, so let’s get on with today’s show! Melanie is a career coach who operates under the Blue Diamond brand. She primarily works with individuals who are looking to make a change in some capacity. She also works with companies who bring her into work with one or a team of their employees. How To Manage a Remote Workforce 05:00 Covid has forced many businesses to work from home and completely change how we run things. How do we manage our staff and help them stay connected to our businesses when working remotely? 10:23 Is working from home really better than in an office? Without a good working environment, is it hard to be productive and focus? 12:14 What have successful leaders and employees learnt to do differently during the pandemic? Without self-awareness and awareness of your team, it’s very difficult to navigate this new way of doing business. 16:22 What are the duties of the employer, and of the employee in regards to a remote work environment? 18:00 Many of us have suffered from mental health challenges during the lockdown. Organisations need to be understanding of this, and cannot take a "one size fits all" approach. 25:15 What will things look like a year from now? Many of the things we have learned from the pandemic will remain a permanent part of our everyday business. 28:37 We need to understand our team members as individuals, they need to feel valued, and respected. What else are staff looking for from their employers in terms of benefits, environment and opportunity? 32:00 What do you do to keep your staff motivated if there is no room for promotion? There will always be staff that we cannot retain, and we need to learn that sometimes we do have to let people go. What do we do when there is a finite path to progression in a particular role? Useful links: Download the Recruitment & Retention Book Blue Diamond Career Coach Download my eBook on Recruitment and Retention Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much and see you next week! Rob

Ready to hire your first member of staff and expand your agency? Read on… In today’s episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am talking all about hiring your first member of staff. I have seen the 'good, the bad, and the ugly' of recruiting: how not to do this, make this a very expensive mistake and how to find the perfect fit candidate. So today we will be exploring: When you should hire your first member of staff.Whether it should be a freelancer or an in-house member of staff.Some of the processes you need to follow in order to make sure you are giving yourself the best chance for you to find the right person and for them to be successful. How To Recruit Your First Member Of Staff 02:00 Feeling like you need an extra pair of hands for your agency? You need a documented vision outlining where you want your agency to head, and the triggers to hiring team members. 02:51 Hiring freelancers comes with pros and cons. Can they fit into the culture of your business and do they see your vision? 05:36 Wondering if hiring a freelancer is the right move for you? There are two times where you might need to use freelance staff. 07:18 Create clear roles and responsibilities in order to find the right person for your agency. 11:18 Once you’ve hired someone that isn’t the end of the problem, but the start of the journey. Are you prepared to spend time getting your new member of staff up to speed and embedded into your agency? 14:30 You need to set smart time-bound objectives, as well as giving feedback to make sure that your new member of staff develops in their role. Useful links: Download the Recruitment app & Retention Book ***BRAND NEW AGENCY TRAINING*** 3 strategies to fill your pipeline with ideal leads in just 90-days Save Your Seat here: https://buff.ly/3p6lmeG Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much and see you next week! Rob

In today’s episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am chatting with Steve Slotow from Globital Marketing. We are talking about everything to do with resourcing and working with white label partners: how to pick a partnerwhen you should outsource andwhy you should outsource. This is another actioned-packed episode with lots of practical tips and guidance. Show Notes 01:20 Steve introduces himself and Globital Marketing 05:14 What are the benefits of working with partners vs hiring in-house talent to grow your business? 10:40 How broad should your agency's offering be? 15:20 Why it's important to have clarity on the direction of your agency 16:40 How to ensure a white label partner provides quality deliverables; managing quality assurance 21:12 Tips for agencies to find outsourcing partners 26:21 Steve’s thoughts on upcoming trends for agencies 29:34 Steve’s business advice to his younger self Useful links: Globital Marketing The Digital Marketing Dream Team The Digital Marketing Collective Steve's Instagram Contact steve: [email protected] ***BRAND NEW AGENCY TRAINING*** 3 strategies to fill your pipeline with ideal leads in just 90-days Save Your Seat here: https://buff.ly/3p6lmeG Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much and see you next week! Rob

In today's episode of The Agency Accelerator Podcast, I am talking about everything to do with delegation. This is an important topic, whether you have a one-person agency or have a team of 20+, and something so many leaders and managers do poorly - after all, we are rarely trained in the art of delegation! This episode is packed with practical and actionable tips to help you further your agency's development and success. Time Stamp 01:52 The concept of a 'notional hourly rate' 02:49 The 4 D’s: Ditch, Delegate, Defer, Do it 03:42 Automating tasks 04:17 Why we don’t delegate 08:32 The 9-steps to effective delegation Useful links: Download The Art of Delegation Book ***BRAND NEW AGENCY TRAINING*** 3 strategies to fill your pipeline with ideal leads in just 90-days Save Your Seat here: https://buff.ly/3p6lmeG Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much and see you next week! Rob

In today's episode of 'The Agency Accelerator Podcast’, I get together with Miranda Birch, founder of Miranda Birch Media; a company helping business tell stories to better engage with their clients. Today we talk all about the importance of storytelling in your marketing and also the value of great customer testimonials. This episode is packed with actionable items, so I know you're going to find it really useful and insightful. Time Stamp 01:22 Miranda Birch introduces herself, her background, and why she loves stories 03:01 The power of storytelling for agencies wanting to connect with potential and existing clients 06:07 What makes a good story 08:17 The role of customer testimonials in an agency’s sales process 13:28 The best format for testimonials 14:50 How to maximise the value of a video testimonial 16:14 What point should an agency approach a client for a testimonial 21:25 What to do when a client does not want their name published in relation to a testimonial 24:20 The do’s and don’ts of getting, interviewing and creating testimonials 26:15 Miranda’s new online courses about testimonials and how to capture stories that convert 32:38 The benefits of getting in front of the camera 35:40 Miranda’s advice to her younger self starting out in business Useful links: ***BRAND NEW AGENCY TRAINING*** 3 Sales Strategies That Work! ​​​​​​​How to fill your pipeline with ideal leads in just 90-days Save Your Seat here: https://buff.ly/3p6lmeG Useful links: Miranda Birch Media Attract more clients with 10 minute testimonials with Miranda Birch Miranda's email series: Pick My Brain Connect with Miranda on LinkedIn Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Download The Lead Generation System Book Download The Strategic Email Marketing That Gets Results Book Join my Facebook group ‘The Agency Accelerator’ Download the 'Creating A Sustainable & Profitable Agency' book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much and see you next week! Rob

In today’s episode of ‘The Agency Accelerator Podcast,’ I am revisiting a topic which I spoke about at the beginning of last year; email marketing. If you want a robust business development strategy that delivers a continuous source of ideal leads, then email marketing should be at the top of your agenda. Time Stamp 01:22 The importance of email marketing 03:02 The importance of building your social media profiles and moving your followers into your email list 04:54 The 8 do’s of email marketing 10:11 The 8 don’ts of email marketing 15:40 Focussing on the growth of your email list Useful links: ***BRAND NEW AGENCY TRAINING*** 3 Sales Strategies That Work! ​​​​​​​How to fill your pipeline with ideal leads in just 90-days Save Your Seat here: https://buff.ly/3p6lmeG Download The Lead Generation System Book Download The Strategic Email Marketing That Gets Results Book Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Join my Facebook group ‘The Agency Accelerator’ Download the 'Creating A Sustainable & Profitable Agency' book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much and see you next week! Rob

In today's episode of the Agency Accelerator Podcast, I’m really excited to have this week's guest, Lucy Snell with me. We’re talking everything to do with business development and some of the dos and don'ts of things you should and shouldn't be doing in your agency in 2021. Time Stamp 01:05 Lucy introduces herself and her background 05:22 Why business development is a longterm game 09:42 Trends that happened for agencies in 2020 12:31 The difference between an agency that really succeeded last year and an agency that has stumbled or even failed 16:34 Using email as a tool for business development 20:46 The ‘Client Service Hamster Wheel of Doom’ 22:17 What agencies should be doing this year from a business development perspective 25:27 Finding things that work and engage with your target audience 27:50 Things that agencies should not be doing this year from a business development perspective 32:30 The ‘Mastermind Group Coaching’ programme Useful links: ***BRAND NEW AGENCY TRAINING*** 3 Sales Strategies That Work! ​​​​​​​How to fill your pipeline with ideal leads in just 90-days Save Your Seat here: https://buff.ly/3p6lmeG Cherry Business Consulting Lucy Snell Online Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Join my Facebook group ‘The Agency Accelerator’ Download the 'Creating A Sustainable & Profitable Agency' book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much and see you next week! Rob

My business development strategy using LinkedIn In today’s episode I am talking all about LinkedIn and specifically exactly what my LinkedIn strategy is and why I think if you are in a B2B space, it is the most important social media platform you can use. Time Stamp 01:16 The dos and don’ts of using LinkedIn for business development and outreach 01:29 Treating LinkedIn as a sales funnel 03:16 Finding who your ideal target customer is on LinkedIn 05:05 Strategic posting on LinkedIn 05:50 Investing time into LinkedIn on a regular basis 06:30 Keeping your connections clean 07:26 The balance of 80/20 and what that means Useful links: ***BRAND NEW AGENCY TRAINING*** 3 Sales Strategies That Work! ​​​​​​​How to fill your pipeline with ideal leads in just 90-days Save Your Seat here: https://training.dacostacoaching.co.uk/webinar Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Join my Facebook group ‘The Agency Accelerator’ Download the 'Creating A Sustainable & Profitable Agency' book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much. Rob

​In today’s episode of the agency accelerator podcast I’m extremely excited to have John Ashton with me. John is the founder of copywriting agency, ‘Write Arm’, he has written a book, ‘The Kitchen Table Method’, and is also the mastermind behind the ‘Kitchen Table Community’ concept. Time Stamp 01:05 John gives his thoughts on many people starting their freelance journey in 2020 07:24 John explains what the ‘Kitchen Table’ method is 11:06 Why culture is so important for your business 14:43 How to maintain your culture as your agency grows 19:42 Growing an agency solely with freelancers 24:50 What is ‘’The Kitchen Table Community’? 32:00 John’s piece of advice to his younger self Useful links: Sign up for my FREE live Masterclass Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Join my Facebook group ‘The Agency Accelerator’ Download the 'Creating A Sustainable & Profitable Agency' book The 'Kitchen Table Community' John's copywriting and content writing agency: Write Arm Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much. Rob

Good riddance to 2020, I am looking forward to a happier and more balanced 2021. Let’s not take for granted all the freedoms that we had pre-2020, once we start getting them back this year – fingers crossed! In today’s episode, I talk about having a plan for the year, as well as putting a robust business development strategy in place so you can get a consistent pipeline of leads, prospects and new clients – and you don’t need to rely on word-of-mouth and referrals. Time Stamp 01:34 Two key areas to have in place in order to take back control and get a better work-life balance 02:00 How to get a plan in place for the year ahead 04:40 The 7 areas that your plan should incorporate 07:00 How to break down your plan into quarters 08:03 Breaking your quarterly strategies into a monthly plan 08:49 The importance of your plans being dynamic 10:00 Why you need a consistent pipeline of leads, prospects and new customers for your plan to work 11:05 The foundations of creating your pipeline Useful links: Sign up for my FREE live Masterclass Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Join my Facebook group ‘The Agency Accelerator’ Download the 'Creating A Sustainable & Profitable Agency' book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much. Rob

We made it to Episode 50! In this episode of ‘The Agency Accelerator’ podcast, I am joined by the extremely talented and savvy Lee Jackson. Lee is our first-ever repeat guest, and today he will be sharing with us his insights into what he sees coming down the road in 2021. The last time we spoke, Lee joined us in Episode 10 of the podcast, where we were talking about growth and transformation. If you haven’t listened to that episode, Lee helps web agencies fall back in love with their businesses, he runs ‘Agency Transformation Live’, is the co-founder of Events Engine, and if that wasn’t enough he is also the host of the ‘Agency Trailblazer’ podcast. Time Stamp 02:00 What are the typical trends you’ve seen happening this year with agencies? 02:07 Most agencies have been surprised that they have been able to continue throughout 2020! 02:45 For most agencies, their clients reached out for help 03:07 Agencies helped clients move from the physical to the digital space 03:56 Some agencies thought they could hibernate and tread water, and some agencies were afraid to sell their services because they thought it was in bad taste! 04:38 Small businesses struggling to sell things online 05:32 A digital renaissance - businesses are realising that being online is imperative 06:05 Two aspects: technology and marketing 07:58 Using social media to build a new audience of consumers 08:34 People working out how to pivot 10:00 Lee’s clients are events organisers - they have embraced online and created incredible digital experiences 14:32 If you can really understand what your clients what to achieve, you should be getting out there and helping them 15:25 Lee tells us more about the 2021 ‘Digital Renaissance’ 16:26 Businesses will start focussing on what’s important 16:40 One of Lee’s agencies is going full virtual now 17:10 Lee is still concerned about the high street and thinks they might still struggle in 2021, but he thinks the high street will also change and more service-based businesses will appear 18:30 Many entrepreneurs get seduced by starting projects and not finishing them. How will agencies figure out what is important? 19:13 To start a business you need to work out your identity, then your values, the message and output. If you look at 2020, think about what your strengths, missions and passions are. Who are you helping and what are you solving? 21:37 The importance of niching 25:00 Not everyone can start an agency, there’s a lot of fake competition tarnishing the industry 25:55 Marked increase in the low cost of entry in the industry 27:18 Lee, if you could go back in time and give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be? Useful links: Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Join my Facebook group ‘The Agency Accelerator’ Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much. Rob

In today’s episode, I share with you the lessons that I learned and the key changes I made to my business in 2020. Hopefully, you can take some things away and apply them to your agency as well. In Episode 39 I spoke with Jim James about virtualising your agency. Before that interview, I held the strong opinion that you cannot build your agency using freelancers or virtual staff because it’s like building an agency on quicksand. To an extent, I do still believe that; however, both Jim James and John Ashton (who will be making an appearance in an upcoming episode) both talk about how you can build an agency using staff who are spread all over the world - some virtual, and some freelance. After talking to them I have definitely become more open to the idea and have realised that it is not necessarily so black and white. Using virtual or freelance staff allows you to be more nimble and adapt to changes as your agency grows. I truly hope that this podcast has helped to change your thinking in some way too. Whether from something I or one of my guests has said. If that’s the case, then I am definitely achieving my goals for recording these podcasts. So without further ado... Time Stamp 4:10 The 5 Key Lessons I Learned From 2020: 5:53 The pandemic differentiated three types of agency: Those who panicked and cut costsThose who did nothing as they thought it would just be a short-term challengeThose who were nimble and thought about how they needed to change and adapt 6:16 Pivoting doesn’t mean drastically changing what you do; but rather, tilting your axis to adapt to your climate. 7:26 In order to pivot you need to really listen to your audience. Don’t just make assumptions. 8:16 DON’T cut your prices! 9:09 2020 taught us that you need a plan, and that plan needs to be dynamic. 10:58 The 5 Good Habits I Put In Place In 2020: 11:06 I learned to delegate more. 11:34 I learned to automate more. 12:39 Got more focussed - doing more of what works, and less of what doesn’t work. 13:13 I did more of what I enjoy, and less of what I don’t enjoy. 14:00 Paid more attention to my mailing list. 14:45 My 5 Bad Habits of 2020: 15:00 I didn’t have good boundaries during the pandemic. 15:25 I worked WAY too much. 15:40 I headed towards burnout at the end of the year. 16:26 I said ‘yes’ to everything - need to learn how to say ‘no’. 17:10 Seduced by shiny new products that are irrelevant to my goals and audience. 18:51 Finally, I’d like to talk about my goals and hopes for this year. Not necessarily ‘new year’s resolutions’, but at least some targets to strive towards in 2021. 19:05 Delegate more. 19:28 Use data to help me make better decisions. 20:08 Focus on building my Facebook community - you can join here! 20:38 Focus on doing less, but doing it better. 21:50 Improve my work-life balance. 22:52 I think it’s a great idea to have a record of all of this. At least I can always go back to this podcast and see where I am at in regards to my goals, and how this year is different from the last. 22:16 I hope that me sharing my experiences of 2020 will help you to approach this new year in a positive light, and encourage you to take control of your own destiny in 2021. Touch wood this year will be focussed, rewarding and provide us with a great work-life balance. Useful links: Download The Self-Running Implementation Book Join my Facebook group ‘The Agency Accelerator’ Download the 'Creating A Sustainable & Profitable Agency' Book Subscribe & Review Are you subscribed to my podcast yet? If you’re not, please do so to avoid missing out on any episodes! You can subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify or directly from my website. I would be very grateful if you left me a review too as they will help other people to find my podcasts and it's also great to read your comments! Thanks so much. Rob